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Bible Pathway - Apr. 18, 2011

Joab, David's nephew (I Chr. 2:13-16), feels justified as he kills Abner (II Sam. 3:27), his cousin Absalom (18:14), and his cousin Amasa (20:10; I Chr. 2:16-17). Yet he sensibly reproves David twice (II Sam. 19:5-7; 24:1-3). There is one last revolt from the 10 tribes before David's kingdom is restored in chapter 20.

David's deep grief at the death of his evil son Absalom made him incapable of feeling or carrying out his responsibility to both God and the people. He had lost all sense of gratitude to his faithful followers. But the death of the rebel leader was the only way by which peace could be restored to the nation and the throne could be restored to its God-appointed king.

The nation was in chaos and, if Joab had not aroused David to action, the consequences could have been disastrous. David's weakness here is one for which all in similar circumstances need encouragement. Although we may disagree with Joab's seemingly unkind rebuke to David, no one can contradict his reasoning. Subsequently, David recognized the wisdom of God's words (II Sam. 19:8).

The general discontent in Israel gave Sheba, an ambitious leader, the opportunity to start another civil war. So every man of Israel went up from after David, and followed Sheba the son of Bichri: but the men of Judah clave unto their king (II Sam. 20:2). The years of suffering, rebellion, murder, and civil war during David's reign were directly related to his sin with Bathsheba (12:10). Little could David realize that it would bring so much suffering (Rom. 1:18). Although the Lord forgave David's sin (II Sam. 12:13), its consequences continued to plague him throughout the last half of his reign.

The tragedy of broken homes, hearts, hopes, and dreams is all too common. The healing touch for hearts that are breaking comes from the heart of Him who said: Let not your heart be troubled (John 14:1). Recognizing His presence will help; however, our assurance never depends on our feelings but on His promise that He will never leave thee, nor forsake thee (Heb. 13:5). How grateful we should be that as Christians, we are never alone. Someone is always present, a personal Savior, a warmhearted Friend, an all-powerful Lord. He is always available, anytime and everywhere.

God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away (Rev. 21:4).

Thought for Today:

Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with Me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve Me (Ps. 101:6).

Christ Portrayed:

By David, who wished to be invited back as king (II Sam. 19:11). Our Lord Jesus wants to be invited into the hearts of all mankind. He comes in only by our invitation. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him (enjoy sweet fellowship together), and he with Me (Rev. 3:20).